yacht charters bay of islands nz

Bareboat Sailing Adventures in the stunning Bay of Islands, New Zealand

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Bay of Islands Yacht Charters Ltd ~ New Zealand

Bareboat charter sailing vessel "Sensation" is a spacious and well set up Farr 1020 34ft sailing yacht. The boat was designed and built in New Zealand and is set up for cruising comfort and performance. 

Sensation is currently the only boat that we have for bareboat (private - sail yourself) charter in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand so you can expect personal attention when you book your bareboat sailing charter with us. The yacht is under current New Zealand MSA Certification. 

Well suited to two couples or a family (Max 4 Adults) our sail boat has two double and two single berths (one with a high lee cloth).  There is one separate cabin.  Sensation has a well equipped galley with fridge, freezer, oven and complimentary pantry items.  There is a hot water shower off the stern of the yacht.

To charter (hire) our yacht well-rounded sailing experience and familiarity with sailboats and/or satisfactory completion of recognized boating courses is helpful.  Practical knowledge and experience in piloting and anchoring procedures are essential.  

  We are proudly 100% New Zealand Owned and Operated

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Fairwind Charters is closed...

After 21 years of operation, the time has come for us to take our retirement and go sailing ourselves from 30 april 2024 our business will be wound up and our opua base closed..

For people looking to charter in the Bay of Islands there are no longer any yachts over 35 feet available for bareboat hire.

Fairwind Charters - Yachts for bareboat hire the Bay of Islands New Zealand from 2003 to 2024

On the wharf, Opua, Bay of Islands.  Mob +64 27 478 9994    Email - [email protected] 

• Shared Charter

Private Charter

Welcome Aboard

Bayscapes charters.

Luxury Sailing Charters In The Bay Of Islands

Relax as we sail along the stunning coastline of the Bay Of Islands. Whether you are seeking a relaxing day on the water, an island adventure or a bit of both we have a sailing charter to suit you. Unwind and experience the freedom and tranquility of being on the water. Embark on an island adventure and go snorkelling, swimming or paddle boarding. Shared Day and Private Charters Available.

Shared day charter.

Enjoy scenic views as we set sails to a secluded island where you can enjoy lunch with a swim, snorkel, paddle board or walk before cruising home.

Enjoy exclusive use of our 40ft Catamaran for you and your guests to enjoy with a Private Charter. Day and Evening Charters available.

Harness the power of the wind as we navigate through the Bay Of Island and glide across the water with the breeze in your hair.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Test your limits and your balance as you navigate the ocean on our stand up paddle boards.

Dive into the refreshing waters and enjoy a swim in the open ocean.

Snorkelling

Experience an underwater adventure and discover vibrant marine life with a snorkelling experience.

Want to find out more? Get in touch with us today.

• 69 Marsden Road, Paihia, New Zealand
•   +64-0220964008  -  Bayscapes Charters
•   [email protected]

Why We Are Rated The No. 1 Sailing Charter in The Bay Of Islands

            We had an incredible day sailing around with Bayscapes! Stunning scenery, awesome crew. 10/10 would recommend!   Cierra Higgins

            Our day sail with Bayscapes was incredible! Brad and Monique were so knowledgeable about the stunning islands, they had paddle boards and snorkels that we took full advantage of and to top it off their hospitality was more than we could’ve asked for! Such a lovely couple and a day we’ll never forget. 100% would recommend.   Lou Griffiths

            A fantastic day sailing the bay of islands. Thank you so much Brad and Monique for taking such good care and giving us the trip of a lifetime. Heading back to Auckland with 3 huge smiles 😃   Chloe King

            Our experience with Bayscape Sailing Charters was incredible! They took such good care of us. The boat is new, clean, spacious, and comfortable. We had a great time during our day tour and had the opportunity to stop at one of the islands to walk, swim, and snorkel! I definitely recommend this trip if you’re visiting bay of islands.   Akil Maknojia

            Amazing charter, with superb hosts, the best way to see the bay! Couldn't recommend highly enough.   Dylan Menzies

            Incredible crew made our trip delightful. They watched out for us. Captain was pleasantly humorous and piloted the boat gently. We were quite comfortable. The Bay of Islands is stunning, sunset was beautiful!   Andy Landis

            We had a fantastic day in the Bay of Islands with Bayscapes Charters. Relaxing on the deck, seeing dolphins, walking on the beach and to the lookout, paddleboarding and swimming. Lunch was excellent, Brad and Monique took care of everything. Such a great way to enjoy the Bay of Islands, would absolutely recommend!   Julie Herselman

            Monique and Brad were so awesome to deal with in the lead up to the event and on the day. We were a group of 19 and had a fabulous time with them - would definitely recommend and would use them again for group charters or just for a lovely day out in the bay.   Elena Bluhm

Book your special day!!!

Escape into new zealand’s sailing paradise, sail away with us – small groups, beautiful anchorages, full service boat charters, phantom charters – sailing charters in the bay of islands, shared and private boat charters available.

• A sailing tour of the Bay of Islands 
• Beautiful beaches
• Great walks
• Swimming and snorkelling

We’ll sail you to the beautiful beaches in the Bay of Islands – quiet, remote places that will truly take your breath away – a sailing trip you won’t forget       –  sheltered anchorages in beautiful bays with crystal clear water, swimming, snorkelling and fascinating history…..and great hikes!     

Phantom safe, comfortable, performance!

Our well known sailing charters in the Bay of Islands shows the quality of our yacht. Phantom is an ex-racing yacht, which has been our liveaboard sailing/cruising boat for many years . 

 Comfortable and high-performing, guaranteeing an exciting (and very safe!) daysailing charter in the bay.

Phantom was built by C&C Yachts in 1972, and was our live-aboard home for 18 years. Experience the beauty, pedigree and safety of this heavy displacement performance sailing yacht.

Sailing in the Bay of Islands what to expect with us

Create lasting memories   –   local knowledge.

Phantom Charters,  one of the Bay of Island’s most experienced day sailing tour providers.

Adventures tailored to suit interests and abilities. Islands of natural and rugged beauty…..a unique experience, and enjoy what Lonely Planet has called ‘the best lunch in the bay’.

Take the helm, or just relax on deck – come, discover the Bay of Islands with us!

8 days Bay of Islands

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Unearth the majestic beauty of New Zealand with our 8-day luxury yacht charter New Zealand itinerary. The ideal way to explore the charming coastal towns, steeped in history, and lush islands amidst azure seas, is undoubtedly by a luxury yacht. These islands are achingly beautiful, with silvery beaches lining rocky shores, and pods of dolphins playfully splashing offshore. The peaceful and pristine Bay of Islands, an ideal destination for a yacht charter, are a true gem for relaxed cruising.

Home to 144 islands, ranging from craggy islets to large inhabited isles, the Bay of Islands is situated in the "winterless north" of New Zealand. Partaking in a New Zealand luxury yacht charter, you'll enjoy a mild climate, thanks to tropical currents travelling down from the equator, ensuring the water temperatures are equally pleasant.

On this fabulous luxury yacht charter New Zealand itinerary, start in the Coromandel and head towards the Bay of Islands to stay in more secluded areas. With your Bay of Islands yacht charter, you will have the opportunity to indulge in Northland's finest - fishing, diving, surfing, and sailing. Explore the plethora of marine life, gorgeous stretches of beach, verdant forests, and enjoy the unique charm of local villages ashore.

• Beautiful beaches
• Great surf spots
• History and culture
• Stunning Views
• Wreck diving

DAY TO DAY ITINERARY

Day one auckland to coromandel.

Embark on your New Zealand luxury yacht charter by flying from Auckland International on a private charter plane (approximately 45 minutes), landing on the verdant grass runway of Whitianga Regional Airport. From the marina, travel by tender to your luxury yacht, anchored in Cooks Bay. Settle in and savour lunch on board. Spend your afternoon exploring the scenic Cooks Beach and Cathedral Cove. Surfing enthusiasts will find a great break at Hot Water Beach (weather permitting). As the day ends, sail around to Opito Bay for an overnight anchorage.

Day Two opito bay to port charles

Start the second day of your Bay of Islands yacht charter with a leisurely breakfast, followed by an exhilarating dive for scallops. Indulge in a lunch of freshly caught seafood, the best of New Zealand's bounty. Cruise to the picturesque Great Mercury Island and Peach Grove Bay for a scenic stop. Your afternoon could be spent exploring rocky dive sites for lobster or snapper fishing around Great Mercury. Conclude your day with a sail to Port Charles to anchor for the night.

Day Three broken islands to port fitzroy

Day three of your luxury yacht charter in New Zealand begins with a sail across the Colville Channel to Bowling Alley Bay, where you can explore ashore or swim in the warm waters. In the afternoon, cruise the Broken Islands, which truly resemble chunks torn off the land and cast into the sea. Navigate the dramatically narrow Man of War Passage and head to Port Fitzroy. A stop at the iconic Smokehouse Bay prepares you for an evening ashore, offering a yachtsman’s haven, accessible only by boat.

Day Four port fitzroy to great barrier islands

On the fourth day of your yacht charter around Bay of Islands, consider a three-hour hike up Mount Hobson on Great Barrier Island. Enjoy swimming holes en route and marvel at the spectacular views from the top. If the swell is running, Whangapoua Beach is a great option, otherwise, the Eastern anchorages are absolutely stunning to explore.

Day Five the poor knights islands

In the morning, journey to Tutukaka and the dramatic Poor Knights Islands, filled with excellent diving opportunities alongside local dive operators. The islands, part of a protected marine and nature reserve, are home to over 125 species, making for an unforgettable underwater adventure on your luxury yacht charter in New Zealand.

Day Six bay of islands

Day six of your yacht charter introduces you to the protected Bay Islands Marine Park. Consider a hike along the Cape Brett Walkway, or visit the Hole in the Rock, an awe-inspiring site for spearfishing. End your day by anchoring in Oke Bay for the night.

Day Seven robertson island to russell island

Awaken to the tranquillity of your luxury yacht charter. Paddleboard the coast or sail around the bay in search of local pods of Bottle Nose Dolphins. After anchoring off the rugged gem of Robertson Island, consider a visit to the historic Grand Old Duke of Marlborough Pub in Russell.

Day Eight kerikeri

End your 8-day luxury yacht charter in New Zealand in Kerikeri Inlet, famed for its vibrant horticulture and bustling farmer's market. Browse local art galleries and enjoy fresh local produce. At Doves Bay, disembark from your superyacht for onward transport to the Bay of Islands Airport.

Yachts in the Area

Amet mauris commodo quis imperdiet massa tincidunt nunc pulvinar sapien et ligula ullamcorper malesuada proin.

45m (146') - Sanlorenzo - 2022 - 10 Guests

From USD 225,000 / week

86m (282') - Oceanco - 2016 - 12 Guests

From EUR 505,000 / week

39m (129') - Profab Engineering - 2019 - 12 Guests

From USD 215,000 / week

35m (114') - Moonen - 2006 - 12 Guests

From Unavailable / week

43m (141') - Baltic Yachts - 2003 - 10 Guests

From EUR 94,000 / week

44m (145') - Pendennis - 2011 - 12 Guests

From USD 260,000 / week

ULTIMATE LADY

28m (92') - Wavepiercer - 1998 - 8 Guests

From USD 59,000 / week

22m (71') - Sunreef Yachts - 2021 - 8 Guests

From EUR 60,000 / week

60m (197') - Perini Navi - 2015 - 12 Guests

From EUR 350,000 / week

Make a Charter Enquiry

Have any questions related to charter? Please get in touch and our consultants will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

Need help or advice?

The yachting journey can be complex with many decisions to be made. Get in touch with Ocean Independence, and one of our specialist consultants will help you make the right choices.

As a truly global company with 14 offices worldwide, we’re available 24/7 to help with any enquiries.

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AFFORDABLE BAREBOAT CHARTER. INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED LEARN TO SAIL COURSES. LEARN TO SAIL THEN SAIL YOURSELVES. CRUISING IN THE WORLD RENOWNED BAY OF ISLANDS, NZ.   +64 9 402 7143

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Yachting New Zealand (YNZ) and International Yacht Training (IYT) certified. Gain internationally recognised qualifications and practical skills with a boat and an instructor to yourselves, Content tailored to your personal sailing aspirations.

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Choose your boat from our fleet of well-maintained kiwi boats. We have affordable 20’ to 31’ yachts,fun and comfortable for couple getaways, to family and group holidays.

Our flotillas offer a perfect blend of planned events, activities, and the thrill of sailing, making it an ideal stepping stone for our learn-to-sail graduates and a convenient option for those desiring the freedom of a bareboat charter with added security and social camaraderie.

Embark on a sailing adventure aboard your own boat, even if you’ve never sailed before! Our instructors teach you everything you need to know to safely skipper one of our yachts for your own adventure sailing holiday in the beautiful Bay of Islands.

Sail yourself holidays in the Bay of Islands

Sailing in the Bay of Islands is sensational.  Whether you’re a newbie looking to find your sea legs or an old hand who already knows the ropes Great Escape has a sailing holiday for you.  We have a fleet of affordable kiwi yachts and a crew of very experienced sailing instructors.

Explore our secluded bays and sheltered waters as you sail yourself through the world renown cruising grounds of the Bay of Islands.

If you want some instruction before heading out on your own check out our Sailing School Adventure Holidays to see what works best for you.

Depending on the holiday selected and your experience you can gain international sailing qualifications .

If you have a sound knowledge of sailing and boat handling, you’ll be ready to charter one of our well-maintained affordable kiwi yachts.

With over one hundred islands, a handful of historic towns, calm waters, sheltered anchorages, numerous secluded bays, stunning scenery and fresh seafood we have one of the best cruising destinations in the world.

• News & Events

2023/24 Season Highlights

June 4, 2024

Our 2023/24 season was a great success with stupendous sailors, a perfect playground, and wonderful weather. Thank you to everyone that was a part of this.

May 31, 2024

May 3rd to 5th was the seventh annual Great Escape WOW (Women on Water ) Weekend. It was a fabulous weekend

The floating office is in a new location!

November 2, 2023

We’ve moved the Great Escape base, but not very far! We’re now operating from A Pier, Bay of Islands Marina, […]

Tripadvisor Travellers Choice – 5th year in a row!

June 25, 2023

Thank you, sailors, instructors and our extended team. We’ve been awarded Tripadvisor Travellers Choice (again!).  This is the fifth year […]

More News & Events

Sailing Tips

Mainsail Trim

June 5, 2024

Triming the mainsail effectively will reduce heel, minimise weather helm and decrease leeway.  The result is more efficient and comfortable sailing, especially when sailing upwind.  Get to know the main sail controls on your boat and experiment to see how to sail your boat effectively.  

Thinking of a European Charter? You might need an ICC

February 12, 2024

If you are thinking of chartering in Europe, you will probably need to hold the ICC endorsement, plus have a qualification, such as the IYT Bareboat Skipper certificate. To obtain an ICC from Great Escape Sailing you will need to complete our Advanced Sail Training.

Communication between helm and crew when anchoring

August 20, 2023

Embark on a voyage of anchor signaling mastery. Silence becomes the language of skillful coordination as you navigate anchoring maneuvers like a pro. Explore the expert cues that ensure seamless maritime experiences.

Beginner’s Guide to Sailing Terminology

August 7, 2023

Get to grips with basic sailing lingo so that you can enjoy your sailing, increase safelty aboard and confidently join any crew.

More Sailing Tips

Ultimate Cruising Holiday

New Zealand's bird life, and excellent snapper fishing off the rocks. Julie and Bill are very welcoming, helpful and knowledgeable. We chartered 'Carousel', the… Read More

Rozz and Ian

This trip and course was amazing - I honestly couldn't recommend it enough. I bought it for my GF for a bday pressie as she's sailed before. Personally, I didn't have a clue what to expect and we had the best time! Martin was our instructor, he was good fun, incredibly… Read More

Rob & Lauren

A-MAZ-ZING!!!!!!!

OMG!!! Do this 'Great Escape' sailing experience - the best break I possibly have ever had! The 3 days tuition seemed intense initially but it all came together nicely and set us up for our own 5 day charter in the beautiful Bay of Islands. The fresh air, adventure, new sailing… Read More

ARRON PERRIAM

Greatescape

The 6 day sail yourself course with greatescape was absolutely fantastic. The instructor schooled us for the first three days emparting their broad knowledge on sailing to make sure we were safe on our solo journey. We had great laughs! Admin and support were also awesome, a… Read More

Russell Elliott

Excellent 5 night charter on a Raven 31

We thoroughly enjoyed our charter with Great Escapes. Communications from our initial enquiry to the end - were handled perfectly. The handover from Bill and Julie was very professional. The boat itself had clearly had a lot of money lavished on it: new fully battened main, new… Read More

Malcolm Smith

What a great way to learn to sail...

We did the 6 day learn to sail then sail yourself holiday with Great Escape sailing school. Had a lovely instructor and at the end of the 3 day learn to sail part we had the 3 day sail yourself holiday. We were blessed with the weather being perfect for all but one day and had a… Read More

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/// Floating Office , A Pier, Bay of Islands Marina, Baffin Street, Opua, Bay of Islands

PO Box 461, Paihia 0247, New Zealand

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Bay of Islands Yacht Charter

View charter yachts in the Bay of Islands , New Zealand here

The Bay of Islands is without doubt one of the most favored cruising and yacht charter locations within New Zealand . Travelers and locals alike are drawn to the Bay of Island's protected bay for it's mild sub-tropical climate, hundreds of uninhabited islands and pure serenity.

Russell and Opua are the two main yacht charter bases in the Bay of Islands. Radiating out from Russell and Opua are over 86 islands and almost endless protected anchorages over a 45-mile radius. Cape Brett is the northeast and KeriKeri is at the southwest corner of the Bay of Islands. When chartering a yacht in the Bay of Islands expect fertile green hills rolling down to white beaches bordering emerald clear waters.

Photo1: Waka at Waitangi - Northland - New Zealand - Photo by Adventure Films - Credit to Tourism New Zealand; Photo 2: Bay of Islands - Kayaks - Photo by David Wall - Credit to Tourism New Zealand; Photo 3: Sunset at Bay of Islands - Photo by Destination Northland - Credit to Tourism New Zealand;

A yacht charter in the beautiful, Bay of Islands, can be delightful. The Bay of Islands maritime park is comprised of 144 islands, secluded bays, untouched coastline and natural harbors. The cool waters are abundant with sea life including kingfish, marlin, dolphins and seals. You can even rummage for clams, mussels and shellfish for your evening meal. The Bay of Islands is unique and the only way to enjoy them all is on a yacht charter. Offshore, the islands are stunningly beautiful. Onshore, the pretty towns are steeped in New Zealand history.

Urupukapuka, the largest of the islands, forms a natural barrier protecting the inner islands from ocean swells. On the lee side of the island are several bays offering safe, picturesque anchorages. Other main islands, well worth a look at on your yacht charter, are Moturua and Roberton Islands. They boast sandy golden beaches and sheltered anchorages. The northern islands of Cavali are a haven for divers who come for the opportunity to dive the wreck of New Zealand's, "Rainbow Warrior". The northern islands also tend to become inundated with fish species from the tropics, over summer, becoming a haven for fishing enthusiasts.

Photo: Entrance to Ruapekapeka Pa - Northland - Bay of Islands - Photo by Rob Suisted - Credit to Tourism New Zealand 

Enjoy the fjord like shelter of Whangaroa Harbor; a fascinating haven of peaceful anchorages and secluded bays. Sail south of the Bay of Islands past the famous "Hole in the Rock".

The types of yacht charter available in The Bay of Islands, New Zealand, includes motoring, sailing, corporate charter, skippered, crewed yachts, catamaran, power boat, sailboat, luxury yachts and superyacht charters.

The main sailboat charter season, from November to April is designed to take advantage of ideal sailing conditions. The Bay of Islands enjoys a mild climate. Summer is generally settled with warm days and onshore breezes.

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Bay of Islands Yacht Charter Enquiry

Bay of Islands is without doubt one of the most favored cruising and yacht charter locations within New Zealand.

Yachting Destinations close to the Bay of Islands

In close proximity to the Bay of Islands are a number of exciting sailing destination.

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Auckland & Hauraki Gulf

Yachts for Charter in the Bay of Islands

Sea eagle | from eur€ 550,000/wk.

TRUE NORTH | From AUS$ 490,000/wk

DREAM | From EUR€ 420,000/wk

MIMI | From US$ 375,000/wk

WAYFINDER | From US$ 375,000/wk

SuRi | From US$ 350,000/wk

NOBLE HOUSE | From US$ 250,000/wk

RED DRAGON | From EUR€ 230,000/wk

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Charter yacht disclaimer.

This document is not contractual. The yacht charters and their particulars displayed in the results above are displayed in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed. CharterWorld Limited does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information and/or images displayed. All information is subject to change without notice and is without warrantee. A professional CharterWorld yacht charter consultant will discuss each charter during your charter selection process. Starting prices are shown in a range of currencies for a one-week charter, unless otherwise marked. Exact pricing and other details will be confirmed on the particular charter contract. Just follow the "reserve this yacht charter" link for your chosen yacht charter or contact us and someone from the CharterWorld team will be in touch shortly.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Looking for deals

Persephone heading home to Opua after a great weekend on the water.

Persephone - at anchor in the Waewaetora Channel.

Discovery at anchor in Army Bay.

Galley on the port side - down below aboard Discovery.

Starboard side looking aft - down below aboard Discovery.

At anchor in a sheltered bay. Dinghy tied astern ready for adventures ashore.

Sailing away for a Great Escape aboard Mystique.

Great Escape Noelex 25 Bay of Islands Bareboat Yacht Charter

1 Richardson Street , Opua , New Zealand .

Charter one of our Noelex 25 yachts for an unforgettable sailing holiday in the beautiful Bay of Islands. Escape for a few days to sail and explore secluded bays and sheltered coves aboard one of the most popular trailer sailors in Australiasia.

Pricing and Conditions

Costs quoted are daily hire rate for the boat, not per person. Max four people. In addition to the daily hire rate you pay for fuel (etimate $15 per day) and optional bond insurance ($25 per day). Linen is provided on request for the charter at $30 per person.

The skipper must have sufficient knowledge and experience to bareboat charter. Ideally a minimum of six months skippering a similar vessel and a recreational boating qualification. Charters who are uncertain of meeting requirements should contact Great Escape Sailing to discuss. You will be required to post a bond for the days of your charter to cover, depending on the insurance option selected. Full terms and conditions for bareboat charter are on our booking page.

Full payment is required before the commencement of your charter. A 30% deposit is required to reserve your charter with the balance payable 30 days prior to the start date of your charter. Cancellations 30 or more days prior to commencement of charter; your deposit is refunded less a $250 administration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of commencement of charter forfeit deposi. If your charter is disrupted due to COVID 19 restrictions you will have the option of a refund or reschedule.

These NZ-designed and built Noelex 25s will enable you to have a fantastic holiday afloat. They are ideal for a couple, three friends, or a small family. Fast but simple and responsive to sail they are easily handled by two people. Well-equipped and spacious accommodation includes quarterberth, settees port and starboard, forward berth, galley, table for dining, and a forward head which can be closed off for privacy. A lifting keel and robust tender let you explore the wonderful beaches, bays, historical sites, and towns in this world-renowned cruising ground. Charters are usually two to five days, you can choose to have an instructor aboard on day one to refresh skills. We have five of these boats so can organise rallies for groups.

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Unforgettable Sailing in New Zealand

A day in the bay, the kiwi way, beautiful bay of islands tours, unique & fun new zealand sailing adventures.

Join us for a memorable kiwi experience by sail in a unique part of the world . You’ll get to explore the beautiful Bay of Islands with locals as we provide you with options to suit both adventurers and chill-seekers alike. Let our experienced and qualified team take you on a modern-day environmentally-conscious sailing adventure . We’ll explore the best of the Bay of Islands’ hidden gems, with a unique and personalised itinerary. Our small groups of around 16 passengers mean you won’t get lost in the crowd and you’ll feel like part of the crew! So, welcome aboard! Let the Barefoot crew share our love of sailing with you!

Operating Season: October - May

Island hopper day cruise, sundowner evening cruise, private charters.

Our sailing charters are a great option for travellers looking for a tailor-made private cruise . We welcome family groups, birthdays, hen parties, pre & post wedding gatherings, educational groups and work teams for corporate events and team building exercises.

Our 10m Tennant Turissimo Catamaran is a modern, well-equipped boat , offering our passengers a comfortable sailing experience for all and an unforgettable VIP experience.

Our sailing charters are a great option for travellers looking for a tailor-made private cruise. We welcome family groups, birthdays, hen parties, pre & post wedding gatherings, educational groups and work teams for corporate events and team building exercises.

Our 10m Tennant Turissimo Catamaran is a modern, well-equipped boat, offering our passengers a comfortable sailing experience for all and an unforgettable VIP experience.

Why Sail Barefoot?

100% kiwi owned & operated, unique bay of islands cruises, small groups, our sustainability promise, leave only footprints.

Our sustainability promise means we like to leave our “Barefoot” footprint as light as possible so our guests can enjoy this area for generations to come. That means our number one priority is respecting and protecting the local wildlife and the environment we share with them. For this reason, we operate to the highest standards of care for local wildlife, sustainability, and customer experience. There is so much more to our Sustainability Promise, click the buttons below to learn more.

Guests Who Happily Sailed With Us

Tripadvisor reviews.

Luke ran the perfect ship! Made us feel safe, welcome and comfortable for the 6 hours out on the water! The day had a bit of everything – even a cuppa tea in the morning and a cold beer on the way home. All the small touches were considered and Luke shared his stories and vast knowledge of sailing and the Bay of Islands with us! Made for the perfect day out – worth every cent and more!

Cindy Cleto

Amazing guide and sailor. Friendly, informative and safe. Beautiful island. Time to snorkel, walk and paddleboard.

Everything about this was amazing. Luke and Rachel made you feel extremely welcomed, we’re so knowledgeable about everything related to the day and lunch was great!

Rimon Morrison

Facebook reviews.

Really fun outing with a super cool crew who make you feel comfortable and welcome from start to finish. Amazing views, and very smooth sailing while having a yarn and a cold beer. Really enjoyed the refreshing swim too. Thanks so much for a really cool experience. Highly recommend!

Ashwini Wijesundera

Amazing 😍 Had a great experience with Barefoot cruise. Rachael and Luke you guys done a great job. Highly recommend. Thank you so much.

Miranda Cornish

Five star experience – a shiny boat, gorgeous bay, a chill captain with lots of interesting local knowledge, a group small enough it feels like a day on the water with friends, tasty lunch, paddle boarding and beer – the perfect day out!

Meet Barefoot Sailing Adventures

Rachael and Luke have always loved the sea, sailing and New Zealand’s beautiful nature! It had been their dream for many years to combine these passions and host Bay of Islands boat tours. So when they found the right sailing boat, they knew that with their years of experience working the sailing charter industry together, that with a fair wind they were ideally placed to make their dream a reality.

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Get in touch with us today, we can’t wait to chat with you!

• Day or Overnight Sailing from Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
• 0800 334 662

Your classic Bay of Islands yacht charter and it’s crew

Support local.

Nik & Nat, the owners, are a young local couple who are very passionate about sailing and about their gorgeous 42ft cutter rig yacht. They feel very privileged to be lucky enough to be running a small business in one of the most beautiful places in the world, New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, and look foward to showing you around. Feel free to get to know them and the crew a bit more before you hop onboard!

Nik Minchin

New Zealand born and bred; Nik was lucky enough to spend his childhood exploring the Northland coastline. His favourite methods of marine exploration include sailing, scuba diving, free diving and surfing.  After travelling abroad for a number of years, Nik decided it was time to come back home and bought his dream boat, the gorgeous Vigilant and set up Vigilant Classic Yacht Charter Bay Of Islands. He now spends most of his time on land working in Conservation, helping look after Russell’s native flora and fauna.

Nat LeBlanc

Straight from the East Coast of Canada, Nathalie flew to New Zealand and fell in love with its marine life and coastlines. After spending a few years travelling around, she was lucky enough to meet Nik, fell in love with him and his boat and the rest is history. Nat has since learned how to sail, scuba dive, surf and much more. She will be on board to make sure your day sailing on the beautiful Vigilant is just as perfect as it should be! She looks forward to meeting you on your Bay of Islands Yacht Charter.

Anita Rademacher

Born and raised in the Bay of Islands, Anita has grown up exploring Northland’s waters and coastlines, pursuing a maritime career was a natural choice for her. She’s been a deckhand onboard Vigilant for over a year, and will ensure your day of sailing on Vigilant is one you’ll remember for years to come! She can’t wait to get to know you on your Bay of Islands Yacht Charter.

New Zealand born and bred; Nik was lucky enough to spend his childhood exploring the Northland coastline. His favourite methods of marine exploration include sailing, scuba diving, free diving and surfing.  After travelling abroad for a number of years, Nik decided it was time to come back home and bought his dream boat, the gorgeous Vigilant and set up Vigilant Classic Yacht Charter Bay Of Islands. He now spends most of his time on land working in Conservation, helping look after Russell’s native flora and fauna.

Born and raised in the Bay of Islands, Anita has grown up exploring Northland’s waters and coastlines, pursuing a maritime career was a natural choice for her. She’s been a deckhand onboard Vigilant for over a year, and will ensure your day of sailing on Vigilant is one you’ll remember for years to come! She can’t wait to get to know you on your Bay of Islands Yacht Charter.

Skipper Nat and the crew look forward to meeting you, and showing you everything the Bay of Islands has to offer.  They will make sure your Yacht Charter in the Bay Of Islands is a fabulous experience to be remembered.